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Colombia accuses US of ‘murder’ after strike on boat

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Gustavo Petro has accused the US of violating Colombia's sovereignty

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accused the US of committing “murder” following a strike carried out on a boat in Colombian territorial waters in September.

In a social media post, Petro accused the US of violating his country’s sovereignty and killing a Colombian fisherman.

Posting on X, he said: “The Colombian boat was adrift and had its distress signal up due to an engine failure,” when it was struck. He added: “We await explanations from the US government.”

It comes after President Donald Trump said the US had struck a “drug-carrying submarine” on Thursday, killing two people.

Writing on social media, Trump said US intelligence confirmed the vessel was “loaded up with mostly Fentanyl, and other illegal narcotics”.

The US president later accused the Colombian president of being “an illegal drug leader strongly encouraging the massive production of drugs, in big and small fields, all over Colombia”.

He said because the US offers “large scale payments and subsidies” and Petro “does nothing” to stop the drug production, the US will no longer offer “payment or subsidies” to Colombia.

The attack is at least the sixth US strike on ships in the Caribbean Sea in recent weeks. It is the first time survivors have been reported.

Writing about an earlier attack in September, Pedro wrote on X on Saturday that: “US government officials have committed a murder and violated our sovereignty in territorial waters.

“Fisherman Alejandro Carranza had no ties to the drug trade and his daily activity was fishing. The Colombian boat was adrift and had its distress signal up due to an engine failure.”

Alejandro Carranza was reportedly killed on 15 September when US forces allegedly fired on his boat while he was fishing the Caribbean.

Credit: bbc.com

Israel strikes Gaza as IDF, Hamas accuse each other of breaching ceasefire

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Hamas security forces on the streets of Gaza City

The Israel Defense Forces says it has carried out air strikes on Rafah after an attack by Hamas on its troops in Gaza. A doctor at al-Aqsa Hospital says six Palestinians were killed, and seven others injured, in an Israeli air strike on the town of al-Zawaida in central Gaza.

Eyewitnesses told the BBC that the strike hit the entrance of a makeshift seaside cafe set up inside a tent along the town’s beachfront.

Explosions were also heard across parts of central and southern Gaza. The IDF says its troops were dismantling “terrorist infrastructure” in the Rafah area, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement, when they were fired upon.

Israel’s military calls it a “blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement”, adding that it will “respond firmly”.

The IDF has called the alleged attack a “bold violation of the ceasefire”.

In response, Hamas says it’s “unaware” of any clashes in Rafah and that it “remains committed to the ceasefire agreement”. It accuses Israel of “violating the deal and fabricating pretexts to justify its crimes”.

The deal struck earlier this month required the IDF to withdraw from parts of Gaza, but allows the Israeli army to remain in certain areas, including Rafah.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to the 7 October 2023 attack, in which Hamas-led gunmen killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel and took 251 others hostage.

More than 68,000 people have been killed by Israeli attacks in Gaza since then, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Credit: bbc.com

Sissala West MP donates mattresses, learning materials to 950 fresh SHS students

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Mohammed Adams Sukparu

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Sissala West in the Upper West Region, Abudu Fuseni Gbene, on behalf of the Member of Parliament for the area, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, has distributed free mattresses, metal trunks, buckets and exercise books to 950 students from the constituency, who are about to begin their Senior High School (SHS) education.

According to the DCE, the initiative aims to ensure that no student is left behind due to financial constraints.

Abudu Fuseni Gbene

He said the gesture forms part of the MP’s broader commitment to remove barriers to education and reduce school dropouts.

“All 950 fresh SHS entrants in Sissala West don’t have to worry about buying mattresses, metal trunks or books, your MP has got you covered for free,” the DCE announced.

The first edition of the “Sissala West MP Support for SHS Entrants” initiative was officially launched at the Sissala West District Assembly last Friday.

Mr Gbene noted that the programme would be made sustainable to benefit future SHS entrants in the constituency.

“This is not just financial aid; it is a symbol of hope, a seed of empowerment and a promise to the next generation,” he stated.

The DCE expressed optimism that the beneficiaries would one day become teachers, lawyers, doctors, journalists, engineers, and leaders who would, in turn, contribute to the development of the constituency.

“This support programme stands as a testament to our unshakable commitment to providing equal opportunities for all,” he added.

Gbene described the initiative as part of a long-standing Sissala West tradition of prioritising education, emphasising that “every barrier shall be removed, no one must drop out.”

He encouraged the beneficiaries to make good use of the items and take their studies seriously, while urging teachers to continue instilling discipline and academic excellence in their students.

Parents and students in the constituency warmly received the initiative, describing it as a timely relief that would ease the burden of preparing their wards for school.

They also prayed for God’s blessings and protection for Mohammed Adams Sukparu.

The Sissala West District Deputy Director of Education, Mr. Sumaila Bukari, commended the MP for his support and appealed to him to extend similar assistance to the Sissala West District Education Directorate.

 

Kwabena Agyepong to delegates: Vote ‘Aseeho’

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Kwabena Agyepong addressing the delegates

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Aspirant, Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, has given indication that his name that appears at the bottom of the ballot paper for the January 31, 2026 Primaries of the Party is a good omen, because he will win to lead the party and wrestle political power from the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2028.

The delegates at the forum

Speaking to NPP delegates from Adansi Asokwa, New Edubiase and Fomena at the Pentecost Church at Adansi Asokwa over the weekend, Kwabena Agyepong said in the year 2000 when President Agyekum Kufuor was going for the Party’s Primary, his name appeared at the bottom of the ballot paper but he won.

“I am going to follow the footsteps of President Kufuor to emerge winner in the forthcoming Primary,” he stated.

He told the delegates that his vision for Ghanaians is based on what he calls “Big Plan” to transform land ownership into a source of wealth and empowerment for Ghanaians.

Kwabena Agyepong also mentioned Enforcing Law and Order, Imposing Discipline and Ensuring Compliance of Rules and Regulations in his administration.

He stated that the unity in the NPP, as was seen in Professor Adu Boahen’s time was non-existent today, and pledged to work hard to bring the unity back when given the nod to lead the party.

The NPP Presidential Aspirant recalled the frustration he went through as a General Secretary, when lies were peddled against him, leading to his suspension from the party.

He added that by God’s Grace he has bounced back strong enough to contest the flagbearership race and urged the delegates to give him the mandate to lead.

He pointed out that he contributed to the success of the NPP in 2026 when he mobilised resources to support some distressed constituencies even though he had then been suspended from the party.

“I am a principled person who is prepared to serve the NPP to the best of my ability. I urge my dear delegates to vote for Kwabena Agyei Agyepong to enable him win power for NPP and to bring development to Ghanaians,” he added.

From Frederick Danso Abeam, Adansi Asokwa

What Is a Cold Sore?

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Cold Sore

A cold sore is a group of tiny, painful blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They’re also called fever blisters or herpes simplex labialis.

Up to 90% of people around the world have at least one form of HSV.

Your symptoms are usually the most serious the first you time you get cold sores. A first-time cold sore can make a child seriously ill.

After the first outbreak, your body should make antibodies, and you may never have another infection. But many people get cold sores that come back.

Cold Sore Symptoms

Cold sores are most likely to show up on the outside of your mouth, lips, and buttocks, but you can also get them on your nose and cheeks.

You may get cold sores as late as 20 days after you’re infected. The sore might appear near where the virus entered your body.

Cold Sore Stages

Cold sores happen in stages.

  1. You have a tingling, burning, or itching feeling.
  2. About 12-24 hours later, blisters form. The area becomes red, swollen, and painful.
  3. The blisters break open, and fluid comes out. This usually lasts 2 or 3 days.
  4. A scab forms on the sore. It might crack or bleed.
  5. The scab falls off.

You might also have red or swollen gums, swollen glands in your neck, a fever, or muscle aches.

First-Time Cold Sore Infections

With your first cold sore infection, you may get:

  • Burning and pain inside your mouth
  • Sore throat
  • Pain when you swallow
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach

Cold Sore Causes

You catch HSV when you come into contact with people or things that carry the virus. For instance, you can get it from kissing someone who has the virus or from sharing eating utensils, towels, or razors.

Two types of the virus can cause cold sores: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both types can also cause sores on your genitals and can be spread by oral sex.

Type 1 usually causes cold sores, and type 2 mostly causes genital herpes, but either can be found in both areas.

Certain things can trigger an outbreak, including:

  • Some foods
  • Stress
  • Fever
  • Colds
  • Allergies
  • Fatigue
  • Sunburn or being in strong sunlight
  • Dental work or cosmetic surgery
  • Your period

Cold Sore Risk Factors

Cold sores generally aren’t serious, but the infection may be life-threatening if you have a weakened immune system because of AIDS, another condition, or medications.

If you have a serious case of the skin condition eczema, you may get cold sores over large parts of your body.

Cold Sore Diagnosis

Your doctor might diagnose a cold sore just by looking at the blisters. They can also swab the blister and test the fluid for HSV.

Cold Sore Treatment

There’s no cure for cold sores. Once you have the virus, it stays in your body. The sores themselves usually heal on their own in one to two weeks.

Cold Sore Home Remedies

Some home remedies can help you feel better while you heal.

  • Cold, damp compresses
  • Over-the-counter pain medicines like acetaminophen and ibuprofen
  • Cream painkillers with benzocaine or lidocaine
  • Treatments with alcohol to dry out the blisters
  • Lip balms and creams to keep moisture in

Cold Sore Prevention

To lower your risk of another outbreak:

  • Get plenty of rest. A lack of sleep weakens your immune system, so you get sick more easily.
  • Wear lip balm with sunscreen. Look for SPF on the label.
  • Talk with your doctor. If you get sores often, they might have you take antiviral medicine every day.

How to Prevent the Virus From Spreading

Keep from spreading the virus, when you have cold sores.

  • Don’t kiss anyone
  • Don’t share eating utensils, glasses, towels, lipstick or lip balm, or razors
  • Avoid oral sex

 

Credit: webmd

Feature: Re: We’re Not Landguards…Chief Of Katamanso Rejects Claims

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The search report

Our attention has been drawn to a publication in the Wednesday, October 8, 2025 edition of the Ghanaian Times under the above headline, which contains several inaccuracies and misleading claims attributed to the Katamanso Manste, Tatse Nii Laryea Akuetteh X.

In his response to the September 16, 2025 edition of the Ghanaian Times titled: “Landguards on rampage… Attack Residents, Estate Developers at New Legon,” the Katamanso Mantse alleged that Mr Oko Borlabi of Bi-Fon Limited and his son, Jeff Bortey, were behind the said publication.

He further claimed that the two were scheming to dispossess genuine grantees of the late Katamanso Mantse, Nii Otu Akuetteh IX, of their lands and that they engage in landguard activities to forcefully annex properties for resale.

We wish to state without any equivocation that neither Mr Borlabi nor his son did anything wrong even if they caused the publication to be carried out since it was their right to let the world know the level of injustice, they are being subjected to by the Katamanso Mantse and his assigns.

Like many other residents and developers of New Legon who have suffered from persistent landguard harassment, it was their right to grant interviews to the author of the story in the interest of public safety and truth.

Secondly, we categorically deny the baseless allegation that, Mr Oko Borlabı of Bi-Fon and his son Jeff Bortey are seeking to dispossess rightful land owners of their lands.

As a legally registered entity and a fully paid up member of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), we have the right to defend our properties through all legitmate means, including, the use of the media.

Indeed, the lands in question are lands legally and rightfully acquired from the Nungua Stool by Bi-Fon Limited represented by Mr Oko Borlabi as far back as 1994.

Records at both the Lands Commission and the Nungua Stool clearly shows that the lands legitimately belong to Bi-Fon Limited and rather it is the Katamanso Mantse, Nii Laryea Akutteh X, and his associates who are trespassing and scheming through every foul means as well as unlawful means to appropriate these lands.

Furthermore, it is completely false and defamatory to suggest that Mr Oko Borlabi and his son are engaged in any form of landguard activities.

The records available, clearly shows that at all material time, the two have resorted to lawful means in protecting their properties— including filing numerous reports with the Lake Side Police Station, the Greater Accra Regional Police Command and the National Police Headquarters, as well as pursuing the matter through the law courts.

It is important to emphasize that currently as we speak, Bi-Fon Limited represented Mr Oko Borlabi and his son have lodged series of reports with the Property Fraud Department of the Ghana Police Service and investigations are still ongoing.

It is also unfortunate and disingenuous for the Katamanso Mantse to attempt to drag the religious beliefs of Mr. Oko Borlabi into this matter. As a law-abiding citizen and a Jehovah’s Witness, Mr Oko Borlabi is enjoined by law and conscience to defend his properties through every peaceful and legal means, and to imply otherwise is both offensive and misleading.

In his rebuttal, the Katamanso Mantse, Nii Laryea Akuetteh X, further claimed that Vandam, Aaron Laryea Otoo, Ebenezer Quaye Kumah and Cephas Oklay, alias OK are not landguards but elders of the Katamanso Traditional Council.

If that were the case, what then explains their persistent violent conduct— attacking innocent developers and destroying individual properties running into several millions of cedis at New Legon?

It is on record that these individuals were arrested by the police on September 17 and 18, 2025 respectively, after attempting to attack workers of Bi-Fon Limited while lawfully working on site.

Facts of the Matter

The crux of the matter is that, in 1994, Bi-Fon Limited lawfully acquired 61.42 acres at New Legon from the Nungua Stool, the legitimate owners of the land encompassing Katamanso.

A 2018 Accra High Court (Land Division) ruling in Suit No. SOL/4/2016 — Nii Otu Akwetey IX v. Kwadwo Asante Boateng and Nii Ashong Kojo III affirmed the ownership of 670 acres of land in favour of the Nungua Stool and directed the Lands Commission to delete from its records the 14,405.28 acres wrongfully plotted for the Katamanso Stool.

It is also on record that the Gborbu Wulomo remains a constant authority in the alienation of any Nungua Stool land, and without his consent, no land transaction is valid.

In a recent letter, the Gborbu Wulomo reaffirmed his full consent to Bi-Fon Limited’s acquisition of the 61.42 acres, declaring that “no one has the right to litigate with Bi-Fon Limited in the face of possession rights.”

A search at the Lands Commission confirms that the 61.42 acres have been legitimately plotted in the name of Bi-Fon Limited. We therefore challenge the Katamanso Mantse to clarify:

Did the Lands Commission err in registering Bi-Fon’s documents?

Is the Katamanso Mantse implying that the very institution on which he serves—as board member on the Regional Lands Commission—is fraudulent?

Is Katamanso not part of the Nungua Stool?

Has the Nungua Stool not already sold the same lands now being resold by Katamanso?

Did he not meet with the Nungua Mantse, King Odaifio and Gborbu Wulomo- Shitse, the Spiritual leader and Overlord of the Gadangme State regarding this matter—and what was the outcome?

Bi-Fon Limited maintains its rightful ownership of the 61.42 acres at New Legon and will continue to rely on lawful institutions of state to protect its properties.

We are by this rejoinder urging the general public and our clients to disregard any form of misinformation about the legitimate ownership of the 61.42 acres at New Legon.

In good conscience and within the rule of law, we will not engage in any unlawful activity, except to assure that we will go to every length to protect what is legitimately ours using all the appropriate institutions of state.

We are also through this publication urging the police to fast track the processes of investigations and charge the four individuals arrested in connection with the destruction of Bi-Fon Limited properties at New Legon on September 15, 2025.

Please kindly find attached scanned search report from the Lands Commission.

Thank you.

Villa fight back from conceding early to beat Spurs

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Morgan Rogers, Aston Villa

A superb individual goal from Morgan Rogers and Emiliano Buendia’s late winner helped Aston Villa to a comeback win over Tottenham, who missed the chance to go second in the Premier League.

Substitute Buendia proved to be the match-winner when he cut inside to shoot into the bottom corner in the 77th minute with boss Unai Emery bouncing in celebration on the touchline.

Villa’s win, only their third in the league this season but fifth on the trot in all competitions, looked a long way off when the hosts took a fifth-minute lead thanks to Rodrigo Bentancur’s first club goal in 2025.

It came from Mohammed Kudus’ cross from deep on the left as Joao Palhinha headed the ball back into the danger zone and Bentancur was able to blast home the loose ball on the half volley from eight yards out.

But in an entertaining clash played in heavy rain, Rogers also got his first club goal of the season – and first since April – in some style.

The England midfielder found the space, despite four home players being in close attendance, to fire a sublime looping 20-yard strike which went over home goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and dipped under the crossbar.

But, just when the game appeared to be heading towards a tame finale, Matty Cash played a superb cross-field ball from defence to find Digne and he set up Buendia to fire home his third goal in four games.

Credit: bbc

Ronald Araujo scores dramatic stoppage-time winner against Girona

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Ronald Araújo, Barcelona

Defender Ronald Araujo scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Girona. Having been brought on with eight minutes remaining to play up front, centre-back Araujo steered in a Frenkie de Jong pass across goal in the 92nd minute to end Barcelona’s two-match losing run and spark wild celebrations.

Pedri gave the hosts the lead at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys with a low shot from the edge of the area which clattered in off a post.

But Girona were soon level against the run of play through Axel Witsel’s fantastic overhead kick following a corner.

Barcelona had plenty of chances to regain their lead, mostly through Marcus Rashford, who saw a free-kick hit the bar in the first half.

The Manchester United loanee also had a glorious chance in the second half but could only turn a low cross wide of the target from a few yards out.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was sent off for his reaction after four minutes of stoppage time were indicated by the fourth official.

He will miss Barcelona’s next league match, against Real Madrid in El Clasico on 26 October at 15:15 GMT.

Mateta hat-trick grabs Palace draw with Bournemouth

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Jean-Philippe Mateta, Crystal Palace

Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a hat-trick, including a stoppage-time penalty, as Crystal Palace fought back from two goals down to draw with Bournemouth in a six-goal thriller at Selhurst Park.

In an incredible finish, Mateta completed his treble in the 97th minute after Marc Guehi had been wrestled to the ground by Bournemouth’s Bafode Diakite as a left-wing corner was being taken.

There was still time for further drama but Mateta, who has now scored seven goals for the Eagles this season, blazed a potentially match-winning chance over the bar in the ninth minute of stoppage time.

Teenage striker Eli Kroupi, 19, had earlier scored twice on his first Premier League start as Bournemouth were on course for a victory that would have taken them temporarily top of the table.

Mateta scored twice in a five-minute spell to make it 2-2, before Ryan Christie restored Bournemouth’s lead in the 89th minute, but it was not enough for the victory.

It continued a great spell in Mateta’s career as he made his France debut on 10 October against Azerbaijan and then scored his first international goal three days later in a 2-2 draw with Iceland.

Credit: bbc

Arsenal reclaims top spot as set-pieces prove key again

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Leandro Trossard and Eze celebrating the goal

Leandro Trossard’s second-half goal was enough for Arsenal to overcome a stubborn Fulham and move three points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta came into the match without captain Martin Odegaard and named Eberechi Eze in his place as the manager looked to make the most of the attacking talent at his disposal.

However, it was the home side who started brightest and Fulham went close through Harry Wilson and Josh King, who had an effort tipped over the bar by David Raya.

Arsenal grew into the game and Riccardo Calafiori had an excellently worked goal ruled out for offside.

The Gunners started the second half with more intensity and pinned Fulham back for large parts.

That pressure told in the 58th minute when centre-back Gabriel flicked on a Bukayo Saka corner and Trossard was well positioned to fire home from close range at the back post.

Saka thought he had won a penalty to give Arsenal the chance to double their lead, but the decision was overturned by the video assistant referee (VAR).

The victory means Arsenal move three points clear of second-placed Manchester City – who were top for a couple of hours on Saturday after beating Everton.

Credit: bbc

The Ghanaian Chronicle